The Ultimate 3D Printing Terminology Glossary
Learn all the terminology in additive manufacturing, from A to Z-Offset.
Stereolithography (SLA) 3D Printing Services
Stereolithography (SLA) is a 3D printing technology that unlocks intricate design possibilities with precision and versatility. It’s one of the most popular resin-based 3D printing technologies, combining low costs with advantageous mechanical attributes.
How SLA Works
SLA works by utilizing the principles of photopolymerization.
The additive manufacturing process begins with a vat of liquid resin selectively cured by a UV light source, solidifying one layer at a time.
The build platform gradually moves, curing and fusing each layer. This precise layering process produces highly accurate, intricate parts with smooth surface finishes.
SLA Use Cases
SLA is used in various applications, from product design and functional prototyping to end-use parts. This technology allows for thorough testing, validation, and design iterations. All this accelerates product development.
SLA by the Numbers
Max Build Size
2100 x 700 x 800 mm
Lead Times
Starting at 7 days
Minimum Wall Thickness
0.7 mm (depending on material and geometry)
Dimensional Accuracy
+/- 0.2%, minimum of 0.2 mm
Working with MakerVerse and leveraging their extensive eco-system to support on demand parts requirements has allowed us to be more responsive and agile.
Quan Lac
Vice President of Additive Manufacturing at Siemens Energy
Source Industrial-Grade SLA Parts
MakerVerse gives you the flexibility to source parts however you need. Get instant quotes and quickly order parts with on-demand manufacturing. Our team of experts will work with you for sophisticated orders to develop, align, and supervise a manufacturing quality plan from start to finish.
On-Demand Manufacturing
- Instant quoting and DFM checks
- Short lead times
- Fast and intuitive order placement
Production Orders
- Expert support from end-to-end
- Comprehensive manufacturing and quality plan
- Guaranteed quality meeting advanced specifications
Popular SLA Finishes
Blasted
Fine particles, such as sand or glass beads, gently remove the outer layer of the print and achieve a smooth and uniform surface. This is especially beneficial for removing traces of support structures.
Polished
Through careful buffing and smoothing techniques, SLA parts achieve a glossy and reflective surface that highlights the fine details of the print and offers good transparency.
Prime and color spray painted
First, a primer is applied to create a smooth base. Then a range of colors can be added and intricate details, resulting in visually stunning and personalized prints.
UV-resistant painted
Protect your SLA prints from the damaging effects of the sun while adding a layer of visual appeal with UV resistant painting. This ensures prints retain their vibrant colors and structural integrity over time.
UV-resistant painted
Protect your SLA prints from the damaging effects of the sun while adding a layer of visual appeal with UV resistant painting. This ensures prints retain their vibrant colors and structural integrity over time.
Prime and color spray painted
First, a primer is applied to create a smooth base. Then a range of colors can be added and intricate details, resulting in visually stunning and personalized prints.
Polished
Through careful buffing and smoothing techniques, SLA parts achieve a glossy and reflective surface that highlights the fine details of the print and offers good transparency.
Blasted
Fine particles, such as sand or glass beads, gently remove the outer layer of the print and achieve a smooth and uniform surface. This is especially beneficial for removing traces of support structures.
Available SLA Materials
What’s the best material for your project?
Try our Interactive technology and material advisor to find out
Standard Resin 
Black Resin Functional Resin High-Detail Resin High-Temperature Resin Tough Resin Transparent Resin Standard Resin Standard Resin
Main characteristics
The standard resin offers a fine balance between detail and price, making it suitable for various applications. Its smooth surface finish and high resolution make it ideal for prototypes and models.Use cases
Often utilized for prototypes, educational models, and visual aids where detail and finish are critical. Black Resin Black Resin
Main characteristics
Black resin is known for its deep color and high resolution, perfect for showcasing intricate details without painting. It provides excellent dimensional accuracy.Use cases
Ideal for small components in engineering and any part requiring fine details. Functional Resin Functional ResinMain characteristics
Functional resins are engineered for applications that demand specific mechanical properties like high strength and stiffness. These resins can simulate the performance of engineering plastics.Use cases
Suitable for functional prototypes and mechanical parts.
High-Detail Resin High-Detail Resin
Main characteristics
High-detail resin excels in printing very intricate designs with ultra-fine features and a smooth surface finish, boasting exceptional detail and precision.Use cases
Used for microfluidics, models, and any application where minute details are important. High-Temperature Resin High-Temperature Resin
Main characteristics
High-temperature resins withstand high thermal environments, maintaining dimensional stability and mechanical properties at elevated temperatures.Use cases
Perfect for heat-resistant fixtures, mold prototypes, and parts undergoing thermal testing. Tough Resin Tough Resin
Main characteristics
Tough resins are designed to simulate the strength and stiffness of ABS plastic, offering high-impact resistance and durability for robust prototypes and assemblies.Use cases
Frequently used for snap-fit assemblies, rugged prototypes, and mechanical parts requiring durable properties. Transparent Resin Transparent Resin
Main characteristics
This resin offers clarity and light transmission capabilities, coupled with a smooth finish, making it suitable for prototypes requiring inner geometries, such as channels, that need to be visible or light transmission.Use cases
Ideal for lenses, fluidics, and lighting cases where transparency is crucial.Didn't find the material you are looking for?
We are constantly expanding and you can request specific materials going beyond our current standardized offering. Simply select “Other Material” in the order process and provide us your desired specifications in the comment section.
You can also reach out to us with your specific material requests at any time under support@makerverse.com
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In additive manufacturing, printing a part is just the beginning. Post-processing techniques add the finishing touches, making the difference between a basic prototype and a final end-use product. One popular method in polymer-based 3D printing is vapor smoothing, which utilizes chemical vapor to achieve a smooth finish. But what exactly is this process, how does it transform 3D-printed objects, and when should you use it? This article closely examines vapor smoothing, which can help produce high-quality, aesthetically pleasing parts. Understanding Vapor Smoothing In short, vapor smoothing turns a freshly printed part’s rough, layered surface into a sleek, glossy finish. The result resembles parts made from traditional manufacturing methods, such as injection molding. A part that with no finishing (except for dyeing to turn it green) vs. a part that has been vapor smoothed. Vapor smoothing is a controlled chemical process at its core. The 3D-printed part is placed in a specially
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